Nontokozo Mchunu

Democratic Alliance) in eThekwini recently announced the resignation of Bluff Ward 66 councillor, JP Prinsloo. According to the statement Prinsloo’s resignation is effective as of the end of September, meaning a by-election will be held for the bluff community to vote for a new ward councillor.

After years of dedicating his life to serving the community of Bluff, Prinsloo is said to have resigned for personal and business reasons but still remains part of the DA.

According to a statement he released, Prinsloo said, “I am truly grateful for everything I have learnt and the support that this incredible community has provided me. My parting political message is to not let small political parties and interest groups decide your future and the future of the community based on fear and an idea of separate development. The Bluff, like many parts of South Africa, is diverse in many respects, not just race, and deserves political leadership that is honest, progressive, and hardworking and aims to build unity and not sew division along socially constructed lines.”

The DA has called for nominations and has assured the community of Bluff that until a suitable candidate is elected, the party will do its utmost to continue to serve the Ward 66 community. Sharmaine Sewshanker who is the PR counsillor for neighboring Ward 32, will be assisting with queries in Ward 66 in the interim.

“As the PR Councilor for Ward 32 which borders 66, it would make sense for me to oversee issues on the Bluff until a new councillor is elected. It is a huge responsibility but service delivery must continue,” Sewshanker said.

Bluff resident Sphindile Mavundla encouraged community members to all exercise their voting right saying the power will be in their hands.

“Our vote will be our only way to make our voices heard, it helps us get issues of the community addressed. When the time comes people should really consider a leader who will reach all parts of the community,”said Mavundla.

Picture: Facebook